Installation of a Sharp ZU1 wall-mounted heat pump in Chomedey (Laval)
In Chomedey ( Laval ), AirGreen installs a Sharp ZU1 (R-32) wall-mounted heat pump : optimized indoor head, bracket-mounted condenser, short refrigeration path and simple HVAC maintenance for four-season comfort in Greater Montreal.
Take a tour of the installation
Each number is a point we check on site. Switch between summer and winter to watch air and heat move.
In summer, the outdoor unit rejects the house's heat outside.
Generic illustration of this type of installation, not a survey of this job site. Tap a number.
Mounted level on a wall plate, high enough for the air to reach the whole room, with enough space around it to slide the filters out easily.
The refrigerant lines, the communication cable and the drain go through the wall in a single opening, sealed against water, cold air and insects.
Two insulated copper pipes connect the two units. Outside, a line cover can protect them from sun, knocks and weather.
A shut-off switch near the outdoor unit isolates it safely for service. It must stay accessible at all times.
The compressor and the fan. In heating mode it captures heat from the outdoor air, even in winter, and moves it inside.
On the ground or on the wall, it keeps the unit above accumulated snow. The unit stays clear and defrost water can drain away.
The fan needs to blow freely. Storage, a fence or a wall too close, and efficiency drops while noise goes up.
Stable comfort, careful finishing and four-season performance for an open living area on the North Shore.
A project designed for everyday life: comfort, silence and savings in an open space
At AirGreen , we are working on a typical ground floor in Chomedey (Laval) . The need is clear: to efficiently air condition an open living space—living room, dining room, and terrace access—while providing regular heat during the off-season and in winter. We selected a Sharp wall-mounted heat pump from the ZU1 (R-32) range , chosen for its reliability in cold climates, its controlled acoustics, and its precise temperature control.
From the study phase, we evaluate the useful surface area, solar gains (southwest-facing bay window), ceiling height and insulation. The thermal balance directs us towards a capacity in the range of 9,000 to 15,000 BTU/h , ideal for open spaces in Laval while remaining very economical most of the year. The Sharp ZU1 meets this profile: fine modulation of the inverter compressor, low-charge R-32 refrigerant, and defrost algorithms adapted to the winters of Montreal , Laval and the entire North Shore and South Shore .
Why this choice works for Greater Montreal
-
High seasonal efficiency : the heat pump covers the majority of summer air conditioning needs and provides efficient additional heat during moderate cold, reducing the use of electric heaters.
-
Quiet and comfortable : the geometry of the blower ramp and the fine modulation maintain an almost imperceptible noise level at low speed - an advantage in an open living room.
-
Air quality : multiple filtration and stable humidity control in air conditioning mode, with even air distribution thanks to its positioning at the top of the wall.
-
R-32 : Better heat transfer and reduced environmental footprint compared to older fluids, without sacrificing low temperature performance.
Technical details and installation process
Interior placement: smart diffusion in the open area
We install the wall-mounted head high up, centered on a load-bearing wall above the passageway to the outside. This placement exploits the Coandă effect: the airflow follows the ceiling and then falls gently, which homogenizes the temperature from the living room to the dining room. The height guarantees unobstructed air intake and silent diffusion. We validate the shutter's trajectory to avoid direct airflow onto the relaxation area.
Best practices applied:
-
Clearances respected around the unit to preserve flow.
-
Fine control of wall vibrations with suitable dowels and laser level for perfectly horizontal installation.
-
Discreet electrical passage, not visible from the room, for aesthetic integration.
Optimized refrigeration path and condensate evacuation
The route is direct through the wall: a single crossing behind the head limits the line lengths. We aim for ≈ 3 to 5 meters including connections - the optimal value to limit pressure losses, fluid noise and the risks of oil migration. Condensate drainage is carried out by gravity with a continuous slope towards the outside: the preferred choice to eliminate noise risks and pump maintenance. We install an insulated sleeve and seal it to the firewall, then seal the outside with a weatherproof cap.
Outdoor condenser: raised, unobstructed and easy to access
The Sharp ECO Inverter condenser is mounted on sturdy wall brackets , above the current snow level, with anti-vibration pads . This configuration:
-
protects the device from snow accumulations and projections;
-
clears the passage on the ground;
-
facilitates maintenance and defrosting.
We maintain the necessary rear and side clearances for airflow. The location, close to the drilling, reduces line length and improves efficiency. An external disconnect (service switch) is positioned within reach, in accordance with electrical requirements.
Commissioning: AirGreen protocol for performance and longevity
-
Flaring and torque : made using a template and tightened using a dynamometer to maintain the seal under thermal expansion.
-
Deep vacuum draw : < 500 microns, stabilized, then rise test to validate the absence of residual humidity.
-
R-32 charge : compensation controlled according to actual lengths; verification of density and subcooling.
-
Dynamic controls : supply/return temperatures, compressor intensity, condensation/evaporation pressure, defrost test and thermostat regulation.
-
Customer training : operating procedures, summer/winter instructions, filter maintenance and seasonal best practices.
Result obtained in the house of Chomedey
-
Rapid drop in temperature in summer peak with stabilization of humidity, making the space more comfortable without overcooling.
-
Maintains efficient heating during moderate cold weather, with a low-speed fan for an imperceptible noise level in the living room.
-
Aesthetic integration : minimal capping, clean feedthrough and no visible cables inside; outside, the raised unit remains discreet and easy to access.
HVAC Maintenance: Maintaining Performance Throughout the Seasons
-
Filters : cleaning every 4 to 8 weeks during intensive periods to maintain flow and reduce consumption.
-
Annual AirGreen visit : exchanger inspection, terminal tightening, leak check, condensate tray and pipe cleaning, performance measurements.
-
Winter : Keep the base of the condenser clear of snow; never cover the unit when in heating mode.
-
Summer : dehumidification mode useful on muggy days; it improves perceived comfort without overcooling.
Usage tips for constant comfort
-
Stabilizing the setpoint (20–21°C winter, 22–23°C summer) avoids overly frequent cycles.
-
Leaving interior doors ajar encourages diffusion into adjacent rooms.
-
Avoid obstructing the air intake (shelf, frames) to preserve the actual capacity.
-
Schedule a maintenance reminder at the beginning of summer and in the middle of winter: performance is directly reflected in the bill.
Grants and administrative support
High-performance R-32 wall-mounted heat pumps generally meet the criteria of efficiency programs in Quebec (seasonal performance and cold weather maintenance). We support our customers in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , the North Shore and the South Shore to verify eligibility and complete the procedures, in order to accelerate the return on investment.
What our team brings more
-
Rigorous sizing : we favor a capacity that operates for a long time at low speed, guaranteeing silence and savings.
-
High-standard finish : clean crossings, clean seals, discreet integration of connections.
-
Complete service : from the first diagnosis to documented commissioning , then scheduled HVAC maintenance follow-up.
-
Local responsiveness : stocks, technicians and parts available throughout Greater Montreal, with quick turnaround times in hot and cold weather.
In short
This HVAC installation in Chomedey demonstrates the benefits of a well-sized Sharp ZU1 (R-32) wall-mounted heat pump with a short path , gravity discharge and raised condenser . The result: four-season comfort, a controlled energy bill and aesthetic integration, supported by an AirGreen protocol that ensures long-term performance.
The unit on this job, in figures
The range as published on airgreen.ca: pick a size to see its capacity in deep cold.
| Size | Heating at −8 °C | Heating at −15 °C | Coldest certified point | COP at −15 °C | SEER | HSPF | Indicative LogisVert aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sharp ZU1 12 000 | 14,500 | 12,000 | −27 °C: 7,200 | 2.11 | 22.0 | 11.0 | $1,740 |
| Sharp ZU1 15 000 | 18,100 | 15,300 | −27 °C: 10,100 | 2.1 | 24.0 | 11.0 | $2,172 |
| Sharp ZU1 18 000 | 22,000 | 18,000 | −27 °C: 11,500 | 2.2 | 24.0 | 11.0 | $2,640 |
| Sharp ZU1 24 000 | 22,400 | 19,000 | −27 °C: 12,300 | 2.2 | 22.0 | 11.0 | $2,688 |
According to NEEP, it delivers 14,500 BTU/h at −8 °C (17 °F), more than at 8 °C (14,000 BTU/h). It heats as hard in moderate cold as in mild weather.
According to NEEP, its certified maximum capacity at −27 °C (−17 °F) is 7,200 BTU/h, 60% of its nominal 12,000 BTU size.
At 8 °C, its certified maximum capacity reaches 17,100 BTU/h, 42% more than its nominal 12,000 BTU size.
According to NEEP, it delivers 18,100 BTU/h at −8 °C (17 °F), more than at 8 °C (18,000 BTU/h). It heats as hard in moderate cold as in mild weather.
According to NEEP, its certified maximum capacity at −27 °C (−17 °F) is 10,100 BTU/h, 67% of its nominal 15,000 BTU size.
At 8 °C, its certified maximum capacity reaches 21,800 BTU/h, 45% more than its nominal 15,000 BTU size.
According to NEEP, it delivers 22,000 BTU/h at −8 °C (17 °F), more than at 8 °C (21,600 BTU/h). It heats as hard in moderate cold as in mild weather.
According to NEEP, its COP at −27 °C is 1.88: the highest of the ZU1 line, which ranges from 1.79 to 1.82 at that temperature.
According to NEEP, its certified maximum capacity at −27 °C (−17 °F) is 11,500 BTU/h, 64% of its nominal 18,000 BTU size.
At −27 °C, its certified minimum capacity is 3,200 BTU/h (5,500 at 8 °C). It slows down instead of cycling on and off.
According to NEEP, its certified heating capacity at −15 °C (5 °F) is 19,000 BTU/h, 79% of its nominal 24,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 2.20.
Data read live from the airgreen.ca page of each size (NEEP / AHRI certified performance). When the title names the installed size, it is highlighted; otherwise the whole range is shown. The aid shown is today’s, using Hydro-Québec’s rule ($120 per 1,000 BTU/h at −8 °C); amounts quoted in the article date from its publication. Only Hydro-Québec confirms the assistance granted.
The big day, step by step
The main steps of this kind of job at AirGreen. Every house has its quirks: the estimate brings them out.
We look at the room, the outside wall, the line route and where the outdoor unit will go. That is where the capacity gets chosen.
Model, capacity and price, in writing. We also check whether the model qualifies for assistance programs.
Floors and furniture protected, wall plate position marked level, wall opening located.
A single opening, with the slope the drain needs to flow outside.
Set on a stand raised above the snow, with the clearances the manufacturer requires.
Connected, insulated and protected. The opening is then sealed against water, cold air and insects.
A dedicated circuit and an accessible disconnect near the outdoor unit.
Leak test, vacuum, then start-up and a check of heating and cooling.
Remote, modes, filters: we show you the essentials before we leave.
- The on-site estimateWe look at the room, the outside wall, the line route and where the outdoor unit will go. That is where the capacity gets chosen.
- The quoteModel, capacity and price, in writing. We also check whether the model qualifies for assistance programs.
- Getting readyFloors and furniture protected, wall plate position marked level, wall opening located.
- The wall openingA single opening, with the slope the drain needs to flow outside.
- The outdoor unitSet on a stand raised above the snow, with the clearances the manufacturer requires.
- Lines, cable and drainConnected, insulated and protected. The opening is then sealed against water, cold air and insects.
- The electrical workA dedicated circuit and an accessible disconnect near the outdoor unit.
- Tests and start-upLeak test, vacuum, then start-up and a check of heating and cooling.
- The walkthroughRemote, modes, filters: we show you the essentials before we leave.
What would it look like at your place?
Two quick checks with real numbers: what heat costs, and what your current heaters add up to in BTU/h.
Baseboards and electric furnaces turn 1 kWh of electricity into 1 kWh of heat. A heat pump delivers more: that is its COP. At Hydro-Québec’s rate D (11.142¢/kWh above 40 kWh a day, since 1 April 2026):
Hydro-Québec: a heat pump can be up to three times more efficient than baseboards for heating in the colder months.
Estimate per kWh of heat, at the chosen temperature, using the certified COP from the product page. Taxes, access charge and backup heat not included.
Conversion: 1 W = 3.412 BTU/h. An indication, not a load calculation: baseboards and furnaces are often stronger than the real need, and they can stay as backup. AirGreen confirms the capacity on site.
Four mistakes we do not make
Flip each card to see what we do instead.
Your own project, step by step
What to do, season by season
Three habits per season for this unit. They take a few minutes and prevent many calls.
- Clean the indoor unit's filters.
- Clear leaves and debris left on the outdoor unit by winter.
- Test cooling before the first hot days.
- Clean the filters more often when the unit runs a lot.
- Keep plants away from the outdoor unit.
- Check that no water drips from the indoor unit.
- Rake the leaves around the outdoor unit.
- Test heating before the first cold days.
- Book periodic maintenance before winter.
- Keep snow away from the stand and the front of the unit.
- Let the unit defrost: it is normal.
- Never hit the ice on the fins; call us if the unit stays iced up.
Is your home ready?
Check what applies at your place. A "no" is not a refusal: it is what we sort out during the estimate.
Four statements: true or false?
It all comes down to details you have just seen.
1. In heating mode, the outdoor unit can produce water.
During defrost cycles. That water must drain away without forming ice.
2. You pick the capacity with a simple square-footage rule.
Windows, insulation, orientation and how the room is used all count. Capacity is chosen on site.
3. A multi-zone connects several indoor heads to a single condenser.
One head per room, all on the same condenser. Each room keeps its own temperature.
4. The disconnect can sit behind the patio furniture.
It must stay accessible: it is what shuts the unit off for service.
0 / 4 right answers
What people ask us about this kind of work
Does a wall-mounted heat pump heat in winter?
Wall-mounted or multi-zone: how do I choose?
Where does the outdoor unit go?
Are there grants?
Do I need a permit?
How cold can it heat?
How much can I save?
How is the LogisVert assistance calculated?
Is it noisy?
The outdoor unit is covered in ice: is that normal?
Does AirGreen hold the required licences?
Is the estimate free?
No question matches. Write to us: we answer.
More jobs to see, near you
By town, by equipment or by region: browse more than 4,700 published projects.
Each dot: a town where AirGreen has published projects. The glowing dot: this job.
Every house has its constraints. We see them before we install.
The on-site estimate is free and the quote follows within 24 hours.
Text and photo: a real AirGreen Climatisation & Chauffage job. The diagrams are generic illustrations of the type of installation, not a survey of this job site. Sources of the added figures: airgreen.ca product pages (NEEP / AHRI performance), Hydro-Québec (Heat pumps page, LogisVert, read on 13 October 2026), Régie de l’énergie (rate D as of 1 April 2026).